Cairn University: what international applicants need

What are Cairn University's application deadlines for 2026–27?

Cairn University admits on a rolling basis for 2026–27: there's no single deadline, and it answers applications as they come in, so applying early is safer.

What is Cairn University's acceptance rate?

88.2% for students who started in fall 2024: Cairn University admitted 507 of its 575 first-year applicants.

• The rate covers all first-year applicants, US and international: the federal data doesn't give a separate rate for international applicants.
• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 admissions (provisional release). Source

Does Cairn University require the SAT or ACT for international applicants?

Cairn University is test-flexible for 2026–27: it accepts other exams in place of the SAT or ACT, and its testing page lists which ones.

• This is the policy listed for all first-year applicants. Some universities treat international students differently, so confirm it on the testing page.

What SAT score do you need for Cairn University?

The middle half of first-year students who enrolled in fall 2024 and sent SAT scores had 460–570 in Math and 540–590 in Reading and Writing (7% of them sent SAT scores).

• If your score is above the middle of these ranges, it helps your application. At a test-optional university, a score below the lower number usually isn't worth sending.
• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 admissions (provisional release): 25th to 75th percentile of enrolled first-year students who submitted scores. Source

How much is Cairn University's application fee for international students?

Cairn University's application fee is $25 for international applicants, the same as for US applicants.

Does Cairn University accept the Common App fee waiver from international students?

Yes. Cairn University accepts the Common App fee waiver and doesn't limit it to US students.

• Your eligibility is confirmed through the Common App, usually with your counselor.

Which English tests does Cairn University accept?

Cairn University lists the TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic as accepted English proficiency tests for 2026–27.

• Minimum scores and exemptions (for example if you studied in English) are set by the university: check its international page.

Does Cairn University accept the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test isn't among the English tests Cairn University lists for 2026–27 (TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic). Check its international page before you register.

How many recommendation letters does Cairn University require?

Cairn University doesn't require recommendation letters on the Common App for 2026–27.

• Letters that aren't required can still be accepted: the university's site says whether it reads them.
• Whatever the letters, your school sends the School Report and, after graduation, the Final Report: the Common App says every university requires them.

Does Cairn University require the Common App personal essay?

No. Cairn University doesn't require the Common App personal essay for 2026–27, though you can still send it: the Common App lets you submit it to any university.

• It also asks for a portfolio, for some programs or for all applicants: check its site.

How many international students does Cairn University have?

29 of Cairn University's 856 undergraduates were international students (US nonresidents) in fall 2024: 3.4%.

• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Fall 2024 enrollment (provisional release). Source

How much does Cairn University cost for international students?

Cairn University's published tuition and fees for 2024–25 were $34,009, the same for every student. On-campus food and housing was $12,753. With books and other expenses, a year cost about $50,662 before any financial aid.

• US Department of Education (IPEDS). Published charges for 2024–25. Costs usually rise each year: check the university's site for 2027–28. Source